Compare Breakdown Cover from UK Providers
This website introduces users to a quote tool operated by Seopa Ltd, which displays options from a panel of UK breakdown cover providers.
- Compare options from multiple UK insurers
- Roadside assistance, home start & recovery cover
- FCA-regulated quote service (Seopa Ltd, FRN: 313860)
Service Information
Insurance comparison service is provided by Seopa Ltd, authorised and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority (FRN: 313860).
Breakdown Insurance Pay from Figures
*Based on quote data provided by Seopa Ltd during August 2024. This quote was provided to the majority of customers. The quote price you could achieve is dependent on your individual circumstances.
Compare breakdown cover quotes and find affordable protection for your vehicle. Prices vary based on your specific requirements and circumstances.
Why Use This Breakdown Cover Tool?
This comparison service allows you to access quotes from a panel of UK insurers, helping you explore a variety of breakdown cover options suited to your needs.
Panel of Providers
Access quotes from multiple UK insurers in one place — no need to visit individual websites.
Simple & Convenient
Complete a short form to view quote options. No obligation to proceed.
Variety of Cover Levels
Includes options such as roadside assistance, recovery, and home start.
What You'll Need to Get a Breakdown Cover Quote
When using this website to access breakdown cover quotes via an introducer arrangement with Seopa Ltd, it helps to have the following details ready:
Vehicle Registration Number
This helps identify the make, model, and specifications of your vehicle.
Postcode
Your location can affect the availability and pricing of certain breakdown services.
Type of Cover Required
Decide whether you need roadside assistance, home start, national recovery, or European breakdown cover.
Travel Preferences
If you plan to drive in Europe, you can explore policies that include European breakdown cover options.
This content is for editorial purposes only and does not constitute financial advice.
What is Breakdown Cover?
Breakdown cover is a type of insurance that provides assistance if your vehicle experiences a mechanical failure while on the road. Depending on the level of cover selected, features may include roadside repairs, recovery to a local garage, onward travel arrangements, or overnight accommodation if repairs cannot be completed immediately.
Roadside Fixes
A mechanic may be sent to your location to try and fix the issue.
Vehicle Recovery
If the vehicle can't be repaired, recovery to a garage or your home may be arranged.
How to Compare Breakdown Cover
You can compare quotes from a panel of UK insurers using a simple, regulated tool provided by our authorised partner.
Share your vehicle details
Enter basic information about your vehicle and the type of breakdown cover you wish to explore.
Compare available options
View quotes from a panel of UK providers via a Financial Conduct Authority (FCA) regulated comparison service.
Apply securely with the insurer
Choose a policy from the available quotes and apply directly with the selected insurance provider.
Types of Breakdown Cover
Breakdown policies vary by provider, and levels of cover may differ. Below are common types of breakdown cover available in the UK:
Roadside Assistance
Provides help if your car breaks down away from home. If repairs can't be made roadside, you'll usually be towed to a nearby garage.
Home Start
Offers assistance if your vehicle fails to start at home or close to your address.
National Recovery
If the vehicle can't be fixed at the roadside, this may include recovery to a UK destination of your choice.
Onward Travel
Some policies may include cover for alternative transport, car hire, or overnight accommodation.
European Cover
Provides breakdown assistance while driving in Europe. May also include return transport options depending on the policy.
What's Typically Included vs Optional Extras
Breakdown cover policies vary by provider. The following features are commonly included or offered as optional extras, depending on the insurer and level of cover selected:
Commonly Included
- Roadside assistance (where possible)
- Towing to a nearby garage if repairs can't be made roadside
- Jump-starts and basic wheel changes
- Initial diagnostic support
- Access to a 24/7 helpline
Optional Extras
(Available with Some Policies)
- Home start (assistance at or near your home)
- European breakdown cover
- Vehicle replacement or onward travel assistance
- Overnight accommodation
- Alternative transport options
Always check individual policy terms to confirm what's included and any exclusions or limitations that may apply.
What Can Affect the Cost of Breakdown Cover
Breakdown cover pricing can vary depending on several factors, including your personal details and the type of policy you choose. Common influences include:
Age of Vehicle
Older vehicles may be more likely to experience issues, which could result in higher premiums with some providers.
Driving Location
Policies that include European cover tend to be more expensive than UK-only options, due to the extended coverage area.
Level of Cover
Comprehensive policies — including services like home start or national recovery — generally have higher premiums than basic roadside assistance.
Optional Add-ons
Extras such as onward travel, hotel accommodation, or key replacement may increase the cost depending on the provider and selected options.
Pricing and cover levels are determined by individual insurers. Always check policy terms for specific details and exclusions.
Tips That May Help Reduce Breakdown Cover Costs
There are several ways some drivers reduce the cost of their breakdown cover. These tips are for general consideration only:
Compare quotes before your renewal date
Exploring your options in advance may help you find more competitive pricing.
Choose the level of cover that matches your needs
Opting for cover types aligned with your travel habits could help reduce unnecessary costs.
Look into bundling with other policies
Some providers may offer discounts when combining breakdown cover with car or travel insurance.
Check if you're already covered elsewhere
Certain bank accounts or packaged financial products may include breakdown cover — avoid paying twice.
Consider vehicle-only cover
If you're the sole driver of your car, a vehicle-based policy might be more cost-effective than personal cover.
These tips are for editorial purposes only and do not constitute financial advice. Policy suitability and savings vary by provider and personal circumstances.
Frequently Asked Questions About Breakdown Cover
This content is for editorial purposes only and does not constitute financial advice.
Do I need breakdown cover to drive legally in the UK?
No. Breakdown cover is not a legal requirement. However, it may offer peace of mind in the event of a mechanical issue — particularly when travelling long distances or in unfamiliar areas.
What's the difference between personal and vehicle breakdown cover?
Vehicle cover applies to a specific vehicle, regardless of who is driving it. Personal cover, on the other hand, applies to the individual — meaning you're covered in any eligible car you drive or travel in, subject to policy terms.
Can I use breakdown cover immediately after buying it?
Some providers include a waiting period (often 24 hours) before cover becomes active. Check individual policy terms to confirm when your cover begins.
Is European breakdown cover included automatically?
Not always. European cover is often an optional extra and must be selected when buying your policy. If you plan to drive abroad, it's worth checking for this feature.
What should I do if I break down?
Follow the guidance provided in your policy documentation. Generally, this includes calling the insurer's breakdown number and ensuring personal safety by using hazard lights and waiting in a safe location away from traffic.
Can I get breakdown cover for an older vehicle?
Yes, but some providers may charge higher premiums or limit cover for vehicles above a certain age (e.g., over 15 years). Be sure to review the eligibility and terms offered by each insurer.
Does breakdown cover include the cost of repairs?
Typically, no. Most policies cover the cost of call-outs, roadside assistance, and towing, but not the cost of replacement parts or mechanical repairs unless explicitly included.
Do I need breakdown cover if I already have car insurance?
Standard car insurance policies do not usually include breakdown assistance. Some comprehensive policies may offer limited roadside help, but for wider benefits such as national recovery or home start, separate breakdown cover is often required. Always check what's included in your car insurance before deciding.
What's the difference between roadside assistance and national recovery?
Roadside assistance aims to repair your vehicle at the breakdown location or tow it to a nearby garage. National recovery extends this by transporting you, your passengers, and the vehicle to any UK destination if repairs cannot be made at the scene.
Is breakdown cover worth considering for older vehicles?
Older vehicles may be more prone to mechanical issues, and some drivers find that having breakdown cover offers reassurance. However, premiums and cover levels vary — it's worth comparing options to see what suits your vehicle and travel habits.
This content is for editorial purposes only and does not constitute financial advice.
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